The Lightning have also hired Leigh Mendelson, ex of Spokane in the WHL, as the Norfolk Admirals' strength, conditioning, and video coach. Brian Lawton is also planning on revealing Norfolk's new assistant coach shortly. Former NHL defenseman Jim Johnson, who has been working with the team's prospects this summer, is said to be in the running. Johnson played 829 NHL games between Pittsburgh, Minnesota/Dallas, Washington, and Phoenix.